1.0 Overview

Each year the troop offers an outing to help the Second-Year Webelos Den satisfy the Arrow of Light requirement for participation in an outdoor Boy Scout activity. This outing is a hike over Velvet Rocks that will introduce the Webelos Scouts to the troop and help them earn the Arrow of Light.

2.0 Concept

2.1 Description

We will hike the AT from the Trescott Road parking lot south about three miles to Hanover, ending at the Community Center. (Map.) We will stop at the Velvet Rocks shelter for lunch and a campfire program. The troop will provide hot dogs, but each scout should provide anything else he might want.

Before starting on the hike, we will assemble to generate a roster, introduce ourselves, and do a quick review of key points of safe hiking, including

Use of hand signals

Buddy system

Staying together

Road crossing procedures

Once on the trail, we will proceed south by the AT about 2 miles to the Velvet Rocks Shelter. At the shelter we will build a fire, cook hot dogs, and conduct a campfire program.

After the campfire, we will continue south on the AT to Hanover and the Community Center. Pickup is at the Community Center.

2.3 Expected Conditions and Difficulty

The AT over Velvet Rocks is relatively easy but steep in a few places. There will probably be several inches of snow and there is ice in some spots. Expect more snow on the hilltops than there is in town. Please check the weather before departure and Be Prepared.

2.4 Special Requirements

Open to all scouts, scouters, and parents. There are no skill prerequisites for this outing.

3.0 Administration and Logistics

3.1 Announcement Date: 5Dec07

3.2 Roster Closing Date: 15Dec07

3.3 Costs

Please bring $1 per person to cover the cost of hot dogs.

3.4 Equipment

3.4.1 Individual Equipment

Adequate clothing for the weather. Think rain, snow, hat, mittens, boots. Steer clear of cotton, especially cotton socks. Dress in layers. We'll be moving part of the time and sitting around part of the time.

Lunch (the troop will provide hot dogs).

At least one liter of water.

Something to carry your stuff in. Your hands must be free.

Useful Optional Items

Pocket knife if you are authorized to carry one. (Totin' Chip for Boy Scouts; Whittlin' Chip for Webelos Scouts.)